LIBRARY

Abstract Database

Stay InformedRegister with NCJRS to receive NCJRS's biweekly e-newsletter JUSTINFO and additional periodic emails from NCJRS and the NCJRS federal sponsors that highlight the latest research published or sponsored by the Office of Justice Programs.

NCJRS Abstract

To download this abstract, check the box next to the NCJ number then click the "Back To Search Results" link. Then, click the "Download" button on the Search Results page. Also see the Obtain Documents page for direction on how to access resources online, via mail, through interlibrary loans, or in a local library.

Initiation into Chicano street gangs has developed over the years into a kind of "street baptism," functioning as a rite of passage for the initiate and as a rite of solidarity for the gang.

Abstract:

At the same time, the initiation process fulfills a pragmatic need to screen potential new members for fighting skills and courage valued by the gang, as well as some of the psychological needs of youth attempting to cope with adolescent age and gender role identity crises. Most gang members are initiated at about age 12 or 13 and, for most, the ritual simply formalizes the membership toward which participation in street activities has long been prepared them. The initiation typically involves several gang members attacking the prospective member at the same time. The initiate is expected to fight back and cannot show any fear or weakness. The severity of the beating inflicted depends both on the initiate's prior standing with the gang (those who grew up with gang members or who have relatives in the gang fare better) and on the mindset of those conducting the initiation (severe beatings are far more common when participants are intoxicated). Similarities between the street baptism and male initiation rites in pre-industrial tribal societies suggest both address similar problems in the gender and age role identity resolution of young people. 17 references and 1 note

*A link to the full-text document is provided whenever possible. For documents not available online, a link to the publisher's website is provided. Tell us how you use the NCJRS Library and Abstracts Database - send us your feedback.

Find in a Library

You have clicked
. A title search of
WorldCat, the world's largest library network, will start when you click
"Continue." Here you will be able to learn if libraries in your community have the document you need. The results will open in a new browser and your NCJRS session will remain
active for 30 minutes. Learn More.

You have selected:

This article appears in

In WorldCat, verify that the library you select has the specific journal volume and issue in which the article appears. Learn How.

You are about to access WorldCat, NCJRS takes no responsibility for and exercises no control over the WorldCat site.